2018 Reports

City of Toronto Flood: A Tale of Flooding and Preparedness

Dickinson, Thea

On July 8, 2013, Toronto experienced an extreme rainfall event, with 126 mm of rain in a few hours, causing severe flooding, infrastructure damage, and CAD1.6 billion in economic losses. The storm overwhelmed combined sewers, spread hazardous sewage, and triggered cascading health impacts, including mold exposure, foodborne illnesses, and mental stress. In response, the city invested in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, flood protection programs, and public education, while establishing a Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Subcommittee. The event highlighted Toronto’s vulnerability to extreme precipitation and the importance of long-term adaptation and preparedness strategies.